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Whooping Cough Cases Surge in Arkansas Amid Vaccination Decline

12/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In 2025, the Department of Health in Jonesboro, Arkansas, reported 486 whooping cough cases, the highest annual total since 2013.
Dr. Shane Speights attributed the surge to vaccination rates dropping below 88% for school-age children, which must stay above 91% to prevent outbreaks.
Newborns to 19-year-olds accounted for 85% of cases, with infants facing severe risks.
Recent data show a decline in cases, likely due to increased vaccinations.

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Story summary

In 2025, the Department of Health in Jonesboro, Arkansas, reported 486 whooping cough cases, the highest annual total since 2013.
Dr. Shane Speights attributed the surge to vaccination rates dropping below 88% for school-age children, which must stay above 91% to prevent outbreaks.
Newborns to 19-year-olds accounted for 85% of cases, with infants facing severe risks.
Recent data show a decline in cases, likely due to increased vaccinations.